Nordic-inspired Donzelle with Lingonberry Sauce

Ingredients

In this Nordic adaptation of Donzelle, we incorporate traditional Scandinavian flavors and ingredients. The original Italian recipe is transformed by infusing the donuts with cardamom, a popular spice in Nordic cuisine known for its warm and aromatic flavor. Additionally, we replace the traditional Italian sauce with a tangy and sweet lingonberry sauce, which is a staple in Nordic cooking. These modifications give the dish a unique Nordic twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Donzelle. We alse have the original recipe for Donzelle, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the lingonberry sauce: For the lingonberry sauce:
• 1 cup (150g) lingonberries (fresh or frozen) 1 cup (150g) lingonberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 18g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cardamom, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm).
7. 7.
   Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out donut shapes from the dough. Then, use a smaller round cutter to remove the centers, creating the classic donut shape.
8. 8.
   Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   In the meantime, prepare the lingonberry sauce. In a saucepan, combine the lingonberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
10. 10.
    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (180°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
12. 12.
    Serve the Nordic Donzelle warm, drizzled with the lingonberry sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lingonberries — If fresh lingonberries are not available, you can use frozen lingonberries. Thaw them before using in the sauce.
• Cardamom — For a stronger cardamom flavor, you can crush the cardamom pods and grind the seeds yourself using a mortar and pestle.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve fluffy donuts, make sure the dough rises in a warm place without drafts.
• If you prefer a sweeter lingonberry sauce, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup.
• Dust the donuts with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Serve the Nordic Donzelle with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the warm Nordic Donzelle as a delightful breakfast treat or a scrumptious dessert. Drizzle the lingonberry sauce generously over the donuts for a burst of tangy sweetness. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea to complete the Nordic experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Nordic Donzelle on a serving platter and drizzle the vibrant lingonberry sauce over them. Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Garnish with a few fresh lingonberries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.